Clifton Park Baptist Church 8818 Piney Branch Road Silver Spring ...

Clifton Park Baptist Church
8818 Piney Branch Road
Silver Spring, Maryland
Leading the Way, Teaching the Truth, Experiencing the Life!
Essentino A. Lewis, Jr., Pastor

CLIFTON PARK BAPTIST CHURCH
PURPOSE STATEMENT
“LEADING THE WAY, TEACHING THE TRUTH, AND EXPERIENCING THE LIFE”
LEADING THE WAY. Clifton Park Baptist Church exists to impact
lives and to bring spiritual transformation to people and places of
the world by sharing the love of Christ. We are a church of action
that seeks to illustrate heaven at work by meeting the needs
of the community, inspiring Godly leaders and intentionally using
our gifts, talents and abilities in the furtherance of the Kingdom
of God.
TEACHING THE TRUTH. The Word of God is truth that transcends
culture and transforms lives. Clifton Park Baptist is committed
to equipping every member with an understanding of
God’s Word that they might become authentic disciples of God,
following Him faithfully and leading productive and rewarding
lives.
EXPERIENCING THE LIFE. Clifton Park Baptist Church is a people
in relationship with God, but also a people in relationship with
one another. We are living, learning and growing in a safe, multi
-cultural community that encourages each member to reach their
fullest potential in the Lord.
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ANNUAL REPORTS
October 1, 2011—September 30, 2012
Statement of Purpose................................................................................................ 3
In His Bosom................................................................................................................4
Report of Pastor Essentino A. Lewis, Jr. .......................................................... 5
Report of the Diaconate Ministries
Diaconate................................................................................................................. 9
New Members ................................................................................................... 10
Bereavement .......................................................................................................... 10
Report of the Board of Trustees ......................................................................... 15
Report of Christian Education ...........................................................................23
Report of the Youth Ministry ............................................................................19
Reports of Outreach Ministries
Outreach Coordinator ......................................................................................22
Missions..................................................................................................................24
Reports of Worship, Music & Arts
Minister of Music ...............................................................................................26
Greeters & Visitors Ministry .........................................................................28
Reports of the Fellowship Ministries
Hospitality............................................................................................................. 30
Married Couples’ Ministry................................................................................ 31
Men’s Ministry ...................................................................................................32
Women’s Ministry .............................................................................................33
Young Adults Ministry.....................................................................................34
Report of Health & Fitness Ministries..............................................................36
Reports of the Standing Committees
Communications ............................................................................................... 40
Nominating ...........................................................................................................41
Personnel ...............................................................................................................42
Stewardship & Finance and Treasurer ....................................................... 44
Report of the Christian Academy .......................................................................................... 47
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IN HIS BOSOM
Former member Shirley Harris was called home in October, 2011. Sis. Harris
joined the church in 1982, raising her children in the ministry. While a member,
Mrs. Harris served as a Sunday School Teacher, Deacon, on the New
Members Committee, and was a faithful attendee of the Women’s I Care-
Group.
Our dear Sis. Esther Sesay went to be with the Lord later that same month.
Mrs. Sesay joined the church in 1987. Sis. Sesay fought the good fight against
cancer before succumbing to it.
Carey Chaplin Tison
CPBC Charter Member
With much sadness we learned that Bro. Carey Tison, one of the charter members
of Clifton Park Baptist Church, went to be with his Savior in August of 2012
at age 86.
Bro. Tison participated in the work involved in the selection of the various Pastors
God sent to shepherd our congregation. He was actively involved in each of
the building expansion programs. In ministry, he served on the Diaconate, was
Treasurer of the Diaconate, was the church historian, sang in the choir and was
an usher.
Bro. Tison was known for his loving spirit, kindness, and generosity. He truly will
be missed.
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Pastor’s Report Essentino A. Lewis, Jr.
We should never make the mistake of underestimating the importance of having a
dream for our life. Dreams and aspirations are exceedingly important in the life of the
believer. Make no mistake about it, there is something vitally important to the success
of our life that is tied to our ability to dream; to look beyond what may be real today,
and reach for what could be real tomorrow.
These were the first words I preached in 2012, taken from a sermon entitled, “The Year of Your
Dreams” (Gen. 37:1-12, 18-19). The theme of that sermon was: God has given us permission to dream. I
sought to show that the Bible is replete with stories of men and women who were not afraid to wish,
hope and dream that their tomorrow could be even better than their today, people who could look
around and see their current condition and, yet, still dream for something bigger and better out of life.
Consistent with that theme, we, as a ministry, began to take an introspective look and generally, we liked
what we saw. The ministry was on an upward trajectory. People were maturing in their relationship with
the Lord. The ministry was making an impact in the community surrounding the church. There was a
renewed commitment to fellowship. Membership was increasing in significant numbers, along with a corresponding
increase in giving. The church was doing well and continues to do well. However, we discovered
that doing well and dreaming big are two very different things.
In his book, Sun Stand Still, Steven Furtick says, “There is nothing our world needs more desperately today--in
individuals, families, businesses, churches, and communities--than God’s saving, supernatural acts.
And He is ready to act if we are bold enough to ask, not just for a good day or a better life, but for the
impossible.” Believing this to be true, it was my conviction to lay hold of this vision and lead our ministry
in the direction of dreaming big and asking God for the impossible, as individuals and as a church.
On so many levels, Clifton Park Baptist Church is doing well. The church continues to show all the signs
of growth and strength that have historically been present in the ministry, but we are endeavoring to
move beyond these traditional indicators of success. We want more. The leadership has been challenged
to identify their greatest aspirations for their areas of oversight and begin moving to make those dreams
reality, believing in God to make provision. As examples, the Communications Ministry has been encouraged
to work toward getting the building updated with current technology, such as wireless internet and
teleconferencing capabilities, in order to make teaching and learning seamless. We are investigating finally
getting a digital sign for the front lawn of the church to enhance visibility of the ministry. The Trustees
are pursuing a plan to increase available parking spaces to settle the congestion in our existing lot. Many
more dreams are taking shape. Many of these initiatives will take substantial investments of money that
we currently do not have, and yet, Stewardship and Finance still has the boldness to begin formulating a
plan to pay off the church building early. Frankly, all these things are beyond our current budget and
resources; they are impossible. And I am excited because God works in the lives of His people when they
aren’t afraid to dream and they are bold enough to ask for the impossible.
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Prayer has been a large part of our petitioning the Lord for the impossible. In addition to our regular
Wednesday night prayer meeting, beginning in January 2012, a faithful group of CPBC members (and
some nonmembers) have been gathering each Tuesday and Thursday morning by conference call--(712)
432-0900, code#118661#--at 7 a.m. for a time of devotion and prayer. While these devotions have
included several different topics, many of them have centered on the idea of living each day with purpose
and intentionality, while asking God to empower and strengthen us to accomplish His plan. This
conference call has provided an easily accessible venue for us to fellowship over the Word and has
been well-received. In addition to the prayer meeting and devotional call, a third group, comprised of
students who completed the Sun Stand Still study in Fall 2011, has been gathering on Wednesday afternoons
to pray specifically for the CPBC ministry and that God would do the impossible in our midst.
All of this is in addition to the many informal prayer partnerships that exist throughout the ministry,
including the Friday night prayer gathering of the Diaconate. I firmly believe that somewhere in the
middle of our dreaming, praying and trusting, God will do exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we
can ask or think (Eph. 3:20).
Again, we are not asking God for the impossible because things are not well in the ministry, but because
we believe they can be even better. And yet, we understand that asking and dreaming is not
enough, but that if we are to achieve our dreams, we must be a people of action. We must dream and
then do. I was blessed to be a part of a shining example of our dreaming and doing. In April, I was
privileged to lead a group of 20 Clifton Parkers on a 10-day tour of Israel. God provided both the
opportunity and the resources for our group because a few members were not afraid to make their
lifelong dream known and our church was willing to act on that dream. As we walked the streets of
Jerusalem, climbed the Mount of Beatitudes and sailed the Sea of Galilee, I could not help but rejoice
over the tangible fruit of what happens when we dream and aren’t afraid to act.
The Israel trip is just one example of many. In this book of reports, you will find our church’s testimony.
More than being simply a source of information, this book of reports serves as a memorial to
the goodness of God. When future generations read this book, they will see what the Lord did for us
this year. Each ministry leader has provided a summary of the important events, activities and achievements
of their program area. You will see that God is at work in our ministry in a great way. You
will read about lives being changed through our disciplemaking groups and Bible study classes. Over
the year, thousands of families have been served with food, clothing and household goods, through
Project Neighbor Care. The Men’s and Women’s Ministries have continued to provide outlets for
meaningful fellowship within our church family. A formal relationship has been established with Iglesia
de Baptista Cristo Vive, a Spanish-speaking congregation, to serve and minister to the growing Latino
population surrounding the church. And the Clifton Park Baptist Church Christian Academy continues
to press toward opening its doors in November 2012. God is moving! Please take time to review
what has been submitted and give thanks for how the Lord has determined to use our church.
I want to express my sincere appreciation to every ministry and committee leader, many of whom have
gone beyond “reasonable service” in order to make 2011-2012 successful. In addition, commendation is
given to the members of this church, most of whom have no title or formal position of leadership in
the church, but serve simply because they love the Lord. Let’s continue to make God proud of us.
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Going forward, it is my firm belief that our best days are still ahead of us. The kingdom of God is
always advancing, never static. God’s people are not called to seek comfort, but rather to align their
purposes radically with His. God’s mission is our mission and over this next year we will continue to
build on the progress that we have made in core areas of ministry: worship, Christian education, outreach
and fellowship. We will continue to make improvements in our infrastructure, including technology
upgrades and building improvements. We will continue to build relationships with our
neighborhood schools and community partners to better serve the area. Our global mission will expand
beyond our current work in Africa to include the Caribbean. Internally, increased emphasis will
be placed on a formal program of leadership development designed to identify, train and empower
Christian leaders for greater levels of ministry at home, work, in the community and in the church.
What an exciting time it is to be a member of Clifton Park Baptist Church. Keep dreaming, keep
praying, and keep moving.
Now unto Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think according to
the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever
and ever. Amen.
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Report of the Diaconate Deacon Ross Johnson
Deaconess Yinka Gardiner
The Diaconate welcomed the following DIT’s this year: Eunice Akitobi, Pamela Sanford, Claudette Knight
and John Abakah. Brother Joseph Ellong resigned from the Diaconate. The remaining Deacons, Deaconesses
and DIT’s were assigned the Caregroup members formerly assigned to Mr. Ellong.
OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE:
Thanksgiving turkeys and gift cards collected and delivered.
Watch Care groups restructured and assigned to each Deacon, Deaconess and DIT.
♦ As new members were added, the Watch Care group assignments were and
continue to be adjusted.
♦ Continued oversight of New Members Ministry
Oversight of Bereavement Ministry
Comforted and counseled families during sickness and the passing of a loved one.
Served at repasts.
Rendered Right Hand of Fellowship new members.
Developed internal guidelines for administration of the Fellowship Fund.
Coordinated procedures for ensuring timely baptism of eligible candidates.
Officiated Sunrise Service on Easter Sunday.
Administered the Fellowship Fund account, disbursing $ 23,968.74 during the past year.
Coordinated the church-wide cookout.
Instituted procedures for distribution of the sick and the shut-ins list.
Provided Communion to the sick and shut-in.
Presented 20 Share baskets to families and individuals in need.
Assisted with and led outreach efforts one month for Project Neighbor Care (PNC).
Led Wednesday night Prayer Meetings.
Planned and instituted weekly Friday Prayer meetings for the Diaconate and others, usually
held in the Diaconate office. Also held bi-weekly prayer meetings via conference calls.
Collaborated with Stewardship and Finance to formulate counseling procedures for members
who make repeated request for assistance via the Fellowship Fund. This partnership led to the
Financial Peace class.
Accompanied Pastor to outside preaching engagements.
Filled the pulpit for Altar Call prayer, Scripture reading and Offertory during Sunday worship
services.
FELLOWSHIP FUND REPORT:
Total Receipts and Deposits $ 25,227.07
Total Expenditures This Year * $ 23,968.74
Current Balance as of September 10, 2012 $ 1,258.33
*Gift Certificates = $375.00
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Bereavement Ministry Brenda Boykins
The Bereavement Ministry is closely aligned with the Diaconate in providing support to members and
demonstrating love, care and hospitality to Clifton Park Baptist Church family members as they grieve the
loss of a loved one. The Ministry is primarily responsible for planning, preparing and hosting repasts after
funeral services. In the weeks following a funeral, ministry members remain in contact with the bereaved
family and are available to assist the family with writing thank you notes, as well as cleaning, packing
and addressing personal needs. As bereaved families adjust to their lives in the absence of loved ones,
we remain available to provide comfort and spiritual support, and help identify material resources, as
needed.
During this church year the ministry provided the following: One donation to the family of a deceased
member (Esther Sesay); two repasts for members who lost family members (Beverly Tucker and Jolene
Russell); and, gave three donations to two families [Sonia Betts and Prudencia Tantos) for members of the
congregation who lost loved ones. The repasts are coordinated with the family and designed to meet
their desires.
The Ministry continues to evaluate and refine its standard operation procedures to ensure that we provide
quality service and demonstrate the love of Jesus through our services.
There are currently 16 members of the Ministry: Sinmi Akinbulumo, Yvonne Atis, Brenda Boykins, Gloria
Canales, Jacqueline Emile, Lurline Facey, Blanche Harris, Thelma Jackson, Vernan Jackson, Mary Mantzouris,
Pam Sanford, Paulette Shelton, Lillie Shepherd, Ify Sofela, David Shaibu, and Conchita Watson.
New Members Ministry Paulette Shelton
For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body,
so also is Christ. - 1 Corinthians 12:12
The New Members Ministry serves in concert with the Diaconate to assist CPBC’s newest members with
their assimilation into our church family and into the community. We do this by making personal contact,
phone calls, and through special events. Our prayer is that the newest members are encouraged to serve
the Lord by regularly attending Bible study classes, joining a ministry and a small group, and by volunteering
their spiritual gifts and talents.
God blessed us with many new souls over the past year. The primary activity was hosting a welcome reception
for the newest members. The reception followed the Right Hand of Fellowship. The Diaconate and
church leaders were in attendance to welcome the newest members and present opportunities to serve the
Lord. It was widely advertised on the CPBC web site, in the church bulletin, and during worship service.
In addition, 95 new/re-instated members were personally invited by phone and postcard, to fellowship at
the annual CPBC All Church Family Picnic and Friends and Family Day.
The ministry continues to work on finalizing the CPBC New Members Packet. We are grateful for our
body of Christ.
Faithful New Members Ministry: Karen Aaron, Rhoda Davies-Smith, Pat Dunnavant (Ex -officio), Andora
Greaves, Heather Green-Ellong, Simon Kgasi, Yvette Lloyd, Deaconess Carolyn Pettus, Patty Poston,
Yanacia Rose, Donna Sharp, Yaco Thomas, Conchita Watson.
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Board of Trustees Juanita Palmer, Chair
The Lord gives each of us gifts and talents to use to his glory. We the members of the Board of Trus-
tees are grateful that the Lord chose each of us to bring honor and glory to him. Our prayer is to
use our gifts and talents to maintain and take care of His home: Clifton Park Baptist Church.
We are also grateful to the Lord for returning home safely one of His own and a member of our
Board, Stephen Love. Our thanks to Stephen for his service to our country and to the Board of Trus-
tees.
The responsibility of the Board of Trustees is to take care of the house the Lord has provided. These
responsibilities include maintaining the building and grounds, negotiating contracts that bind the
church and to ensure that the facilities are safe and secure. Ministries under the guidance of the Trus-
tees include the van ministry, kitchen ministry, and the security ministry.
Our thanks to Les Cross for assuming leadership of the security ministry while Stephen Love was de-
ployed to active duty. Les continues to lead in this capacity.
Lease agreements
After more than fifteen years of worshiping at CPBC the Vietnamese congregation moved to another
location. Their participation in worship especially during international Sundays will truly be missed. We
pray the Lord’s blessing for their congregation as they minister in their new location.
On Easter Sunday we welcomed a new Spanish ministry led by Pastor Amaya. Pastor Amaya and his
ministry begin using our facility holding Wednesday night Bible studies. He also participates in Project
Neighbor Care (PNC). The ministry now meets regularly each Sunday utilizing several classrooms and
the Social Hall. We entered into a one year agreement with their ministry; the terms of the agreement
include an automatic annual renewal. Their ministry continues to be a blessing for PNC.
Completed tasks
In addition to regular maintenance of the facility, listed below are of some of the major tasks com-
pleted this church year:
Installation of new hot water heater
Painting the Social Hall
Repaired the outer doors that lead to office entrance
Cleaned the lower level kitchen
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Montgomery County Code Requirements
A number of fault alarms were reported to the fire department; this warranted an inspection by the Fire
Marshal. The Fire Marshal inspection concluded that the building was not up to code and required that
we maintain 24 hour fire watch until code requirements were complete. Funding was approved for repairs
and fire watch removed.
The building however has other code requirements, county granted a five year extension to complete
the additional repairs, and the estimated cost is $85,000.
Work Parties
Held a number of work parties, changed format, - two or three consecutive weeks for two hours with
specific task each week. Plans are to continue with this format. Thanks to all for your participation.
Our Focus
Psalm 20, verses 1-4 has been our prayer for the last several months.
May the Lord answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you.
May he send you help from the sanctuary and grant you support from Zion.
May he remember all your sacrifices and accept your burnt offerings.
May he give you the desire of your heart and make all of your plans succeed.
Our prayer is that as we are obedient the Lord will bless us. Please pray with us that as we seek the Lord
He will provide and bless. To God be the glory for all that he has done and will do; Amen and Amen!
Members of the Board of Trustees
Karen Aaron, Hampton Edwards, Earnest Johnson, Huey Long, Stephen Love, Kinsley McLean, Robert
Ntim, Artis Palmer, and Juanita Palmer
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Minister of Education Minister Janet Henley
The assignment to write the annual report comes at the end of the church year, yes,
but also for me at the beginning of the Christian Education year (September). As I
report, I am very much into the demands of the Start, listening to what the Spirit is
saying to the church in relation to discipleship, and getting excited all over again
about what the Lord desires to do with a surrendered people.
As I look back, however, I do so humbled by the Lord’s faithfulness to this place called Clifton Park and
this ministry called Christian Education, whose quest always has been and will continue to be to get
God’s people to His word, to drink of it in both private and group study, to believe in it alone and together
and to live it in community before a watching world so that they too may believe in Jesus and be
saved. So, how has He led us?
Four Significant Studies for Personal and Church Health
The Spirit led us to focus on our individual spiritual health by being students of His word.
In The Connection Point, we introduced what we named the In-Depth Bible Survey Studies. These studies
are in-depth in that students read the books of the Bible under study in their entirety (Traditional
survey studies have the students reading only key passages in the book). The studies are survey studies
as they don’t go as deep into the study as is possible. In order to move the student from a casual to a
careful reader of the word, however, they are required to journal daily. Journaling involves working
each chapter by making observations or writing summaries, recording questions they have about the
passage, writing down often quoted verses while noting who said it, to whom and why. Where appropriate,
students make the application by praying the Scriptures. What an audacious thought — all
Clifton Parkers communing daily with the Lord through His word and prayer. The courses offered were:
The Pentateuch taught by Sister Brenda Taylor and Deaconess Diane Brockington, Joshua, Judges, Ruth
taught by Deacon Sam Akitobi, and The Gospels taught by Deaconess Hyacinth Salmon. This Fall 2011
study ran from September to December with a total enrollment of 69.
In The School of Discipleship, the study Sun Stand Still, written by Pastor Steven Furtick, though unplanned,
was very much in keeping with Pastor Lewis’ sermon series on dreaming dreams that only God
could make come true. The title of the book comes from Joshua 10 where, with the blessing and promise
of victory from God, Joshua warred successfully with the Amorites. Joshua, however, believed God
for complete victory and so he asked the Lord to make the sun stand still. And the sun stood still, enabling
Joshua to completely wipe out Israel’s enemy. Pastor Lewis has invited those who took the study
to be in prayer with him regarding the Sun Stand Still movement God is orchestrating at Clifton Park.
Those praying are being charged to make audacity a lifestyle - penetrating every area of their lives. (For
clarity, biblical audacity is a mind-set that approaches God with confidence and believes Him for the impossible.)
We’re believing God for the impossible He will do at Clifton Park Baptist Church. SUN
STAND STILL! This Fall 2011 study ran from September to December with a total enrollment of 14.
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Read the Bible for Life was advertised as the study of the summer and it more than exceeded our expectations.
It was chosen particularly for those who had enrolled and would continue to enroll in the
In-Depth Bible studies (reported above), and, it was a required study for those in The Great Commission
Groups. The book, published by LifeWay Christian Resources, was one of many efforts by publishers
to get believers back into the Bible. The author challenged us not only to read the Bible but
also to read it well. We are thankful that the author, Dr. George Guthrie, wrote the book well, which
made for a more enriching journey. It included teachings on how to read the Old Testament stories,
the books of the Law and Prophets and how to read the New Testament stories, the Letters and Revelation.
The companion DVD greatly enhanced the study experience as Guthrie gave us visual illustrations
of his teaching points. This study was offered in the summer of 2012 from June to August with
an all-time high enrollment of 77. The course has been moved to CPBC’s list of Classics, courses that
must be a part of one’s discipleship tract. READ THE BIBLE FOR LIFE!
The Spirit also led us to focus on our church/congregational health through an all-church study. Using
the book co-authored by LifeWay president and CEO, Dr. Thom Rainer and church growth strategist,
Dr. Ed Stetzer, entitled The Transformational Church, Pastor Lewis led us through a church examination
process. Participants spent two weeks on each of the seven elements that make for a transformational
church: missionary mentality, vibrant leadership, relational intentionality, prayerful dependence,
worship, community and mission. The first week involved teaching and understanding the element;
the second week involved applying the element and considering strategies to put the element
into play. This Winter/Spring 2012 study was held from January to May with an enrollment of 28.
Other Honorable Mentions
Our annual Christian Education Sunday was observed on June 10, 2012. The worship service included
all of our traditional elements — One hundred and fifty-nine certificates were awarded. Six graduates
were recognized. Sister Pat Dunnavant, as the 2011-2012 Excellence in Education Award recipient, was
honored for 16 years of service in teaching in The School of Discipleship and Sunday School.
In addition to these traditional elements, the Great Commission Groups (GCG’s), though always mentioned
in my annual reports, were formally introduced. The GCG’s are CPBC’s intentional effort of
fulfilling Christ’s Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20, “As you are going, make disciples.” There
are 10 such groups ranging from two to four disciplees who sit under a discipler. Following a set plan,
the groups meet weekly for study and at other times for prayer and fellowship. Those disciplers who
have been pioneering this process at CPBC since January 2010 include Brothers Hampton Edwards and
Ed Jackson, Deacon Ross Johnson, Deaconesses Modupe Bada, Hyacinth Salmon and Diane Brockington,
Sisters Suzanne Womble, Poniesa Johnson and Elizabeth Olakanye, and Minister Henley.
Part of the Great Commission Groups’ study plan is for the disciplees to do a practicum so they can
begin to nurture persons in the word. A very successful effort at this was led by Bro. Hampton Edwards’
group who offered a Men’s Edition of FAITH Foundations on Wednesday evenings. Hampton,
along with his four disciplees, who served as Spiritual Coaches, taught the biblical foundation material
to 16 men over two semesters. Among these 16 men are certainly prospects for the next generation of
the GCG’s.
In our AWANA program the Lord allowed us to minister to 124 clubbers and students. We were especially
grateful for the presence of the parents who participated in the weekly opening exercises and
in our special programs. The 24 AWANA directors and leaders remained faithful and prayerful. We
ended the year with the goal of every clubber and student completing at least one book.
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No matter who you are, how you feel, what people do, what happens or where you are TRUST GOD
for Everything is Possible with God. That was the message of the Summer 2012 Vacation Bible School.
From July 9-13, for five days, each evening the children and leaders would hear these truths taught in a
variety of ways. The program also included home and foreign mission projects. Monies were collected
to supply 14 filled backpacks to children in the Park Montgomery Apartments’ after school program.
Other monies along with cards from the children were sent to Group Publishers who will supply
mosquito nets for children in Mali, Africa to guard against and squash malaria. Director Cheryl
Callahan led 45 volunteers to service 60 children. Cheryl reported, “Two children indicated interests
in baptism and salvation. Several parents expressed their gratitude for the experience, shared that their
children enjoyed VBS, and saw evidence of the seeds that we sowed.” EVERYTHING IS POSSIBLE
WITH GOD!
The Seniors Sunday School is one of our most successful Sunday School classes. They are consistent
in their attendance and come in good numbers. Because of this consistency, they experience real fellowship
during their time of study. If I am near their classroom during the start, I can hear them
opening with a song. So, I give a special thanks to the teacher, Sister Lillie Shepherd for leading so
well. This group has been going through Campus Crusade for Christ’s Ten Basic Steps to Christian
Maturity, ending the year on Step 6: The Christian and Obedience.
It was a bitter/sweet moment as I received the resignation of Deaconess Yinka Gardiner as the teacher
of the Youth Sunday School (6 yrs) and a leader in Journey Awana (7 yrs). In youth Christian education
Yinka and I were united in our hopes and prayers and work toward a higher discipleship for our
teens. We would say, “If they only knew how good God is and how much sense it makes to just follow
Him. He has the best plan.” As we have believed that for the students, I now believe it for my
dear sister and partner as she embraces God’s plan for this phase of her life.
I am thankful for the support and leadership of those who served with me on the Christian Education
Committee for the 2011-2012 year: Sisters Elizabeth Olakanye and Suzanne Womble (Librarian), Deaconesses
Wendy Walkes (Children’s Church Coordinator), Modupe Bada (FAITH Foundations/Visitation
Coordinator) and Hyacinth Salmon, DIT John Abaka and Brother Yaw Asumeng.
After 21 years, I am still honored to be the Minister of Education at Clifton Park Baptist Church. This
journey with Jesus still amazes! (Galatians 2:20)
FOR THE PRAISE OF HIS GLORY!
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Youth Minister Minister Glenn Scott
Missions
The year began with Deuteronomy 6:6-9 as our charter and we set out this year
wanting to disciple our youth towards a closer relationship with Jesus mostly
through fellowship, worship and various mission related projects.
We started off by hosting the District of Columbia Baptist Convention’s 2011 Youth Summit which
brought together roughly 10 youth ministries and over 100 attendees for a day fun, fellowship and
worship. The day included both breakfast and lunch with workshops led by various youth ministers
invited by the convention’s planning board. The staff at DCBC heralded the event as a great success
and was immensely grateful to CPBC for opening its doors to its Summit.
We then turned our attention to Operation Christmas Child, our annual missions project that gives
our youth the opportunity to give to children around the country and around the world. This year
as before, our youth along with parents and various members in our congregation donated over 50
boxes to needy children across the globe. In addition to this act of giving, the Lord placed it on the
heart of Sister Linda Slaughter to lead a group of teen girls on a 3 days mission trip to one of the major
shoe box collection warehouses for Operation Christmas Shoe on November 27-27 th . While
there, they worked two 8 hour work shifts checking each shoe box to make sure that they were safe
and appropriate to send to their final destination.
In December of 2011 the Youth Ministry started an open gym night for teens in the neighborhood
and although attendance fell off, we were able to start a 6 weeks basketball camp for children ages 7
through 11 on the fundamentals of basketball. Attendance was on average about 17 children and we
continue to look for ways to continue providing this opportunity to our youth throughout the coming
year.
Lastly, as did many other ministries in the church, the youth ministry hosted Project Neighbor care in
May. The teens took on the door knocking duties alongside the Education Ministry, knocking on
more than 80 doors in about 2 hours. On the first Saturday in July roughly 30 youth participated in
the market serving more than 100 households.
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Fellowship
There were many fellowship opportunities throughout the year and a few are highlighted below:
Teen Ministry kicked of the year “locked out” all night from 7pm on Friday to 7am Saturday morning.
They visited the movies, the skating rink, played games and went to have an early morning breakfast at
IHOP. Then the entire youth ministry held its annual Fall Festival, its alternative to Halloween on the last
Saturday of October. About 100 kids attended both from our neighborhood and our church with one
youth making a decision to accept Jesus as Lord.
Solid Rocks and Precious Stones continued to meet on the 2 nd and 4th Sundays of each month after worship.
The Precious Stones focused the year on Friendships – completing a study on what a true friendship
looks like with the Lord and with one another. In addition to the OCC mission trip Sis. Linda Slaughter
also led the friendship study as well.
The Solid Rocks on the other hand continued their study theme – modeling after Christ. The Rocks also
made a trip to the Martin Luther King Memorial in observance of Black History month. The teens held
their 3 rd annual retreat in Somerset, PA and on the way back visited the 9-11 Memorial for flight 93. The
Children’s Ministry also had fun celebrating Easter with the Easter Egg Hunt in April and to close out the
year the entire youth ministry held a breakfast with 3 breakout sessions on Relationships, School and faith
and the influence of Music.
Worship
Participation in worship continued to grow this year as more teens became more involved in the music
and arts ministry and took leadership roles in worship during Youth Sundays. A notable highlight for
the ministry is that we were delighted to start a youth worship service for all youth under 18 that worships
in the Fellowship Hall on 4 th Sundays of each month. We look forward to the Lord’s continuing
work in the lives of our young people in the coming year and know that as He has done in the past -
will do great things.
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Community Outreach Coordinator Nana Dolce
Project Neighbor Care
Transformational 2012 Outreach Activities
Clifton Park Baptist Church (CPBC) has been on a journey to advance into the community. In
2012, in addition to Project Neighbor Care (PNC), four key ministries within the fellowship
committee of the church worked with CPBC’s Outreach Coordinator to craft natural and well
-suited outreach opportunities that encourage long-term engagement with members of the
community. The following is a report of our transformational 2012 outreach activities:
Project Neighbor Care was launched in February 2011. As it moves towards its third year in operation, it continues
to prove itself as a dynamic initiative. At its core, it transforms the church’s food bank and clothes closet
into a vibrant community market offering free fresh produce, seasonal clothing and household items to hundreds
of families every first Saturday of the month. Its mission is to assist local families with the basic necessity
of healthy food and quality clothing within a warm and engaging space. In addition to food and clothing, PNC
also serves as a platform to share essential health resources with neighbors—these include monthly blood pressure
screenings and information on low- to no-cost family health insurance, dental services, nutrition education
and other health and educational resources.
Over this last year, the LORD has blessed PNC in four essential areas, the following is a review:
1. Decisions for Christ – It has been a tremendous blessing to witness men, women and entire families
coming to faith in Christ at the PNC market. The Evangelism Ministry is a stable fixture at the market
and the team does an excellent job at warmly engaging the community with the gospel at the event.
Through the grace of God and their faithfulness, several people have made decisions for Christ, some
40 Bibles have been distributed, and the CPBC FAITH team visit PNC shoppers weekly for prayer.
2. Over 1000 Households Served – In 2012, PNC served over 1000 individual households and provided
these families with food, clothing, household products and community resource information. What a
blessing!
3. Volunteer Support - Members of CPBC have embraced PNC in a remarkable way. They serve as the primary
volunteers for this project with an average 40 volunteers engaging community members monthly.
4. Community Partnerships - As a whole, Project Neighbor Care has proven to be a remarkable means for
displaying genuine Christian love and has become a unique tool for building impressive community partnerships.
Below is a description of the organizations that donate goods, provide resource information,
help to market and support the ministry focus of PNC.
The Capital Area Food Bank (CAFB) – CAFB distributes some 30 million pounds of food
annually to more than 478,000 people through a network of partner agencies. CPBC serves
as one of these agencies. As a partner, CPBC receives eight pallets of fresh produce monthly
for distribution through PNC.
Local Bakeries – CPBC has partnered with three local bakeries—Safeway, Panera Bread and
Upper Crust Bakery—to receive monthly donations of baked goods to distribute through
PNC.
Diakon Kathryn’s Kloset (DKK) – DKK donates a range of household and personal care
items to non-profits serving the needy. CPBC pays a minimum partnership fee every quarter
to receive products for distribution.
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Information Resource Partners – PNC has collaborated with the following organizations
over the past year to offer information on health and educational resources
to the community: Kaiser Permanente (affordable health insurance); Holy Cross
Hospital; Priority Partners (low- to no-cost health insurance); WIC (pre- and postnatal
support for women and children); Healthy Smile Program (dental services for
children and families); Lourie Center Early Head Start (comprehensive, year-round
child development services); and IMPACT Silver Spring (economic empowerment
and thriving communities).
Marketing Partners – PNC partners CPBC with local schools, community centers,
apartment managers, service organizations, non-profits and government agencies
(e.g., the Montgomery County Health and Human Services) who work with the
church to inform families about this amazing resource.
Ministry Partner – Lastly, PNC has joined CPBC with an incredible Hispanic congregation,
Iglesia Bautista Cristo Vive (Jesus Lives Baptist Church). The two
churches have linked arms to minister to the bilingual community of Silver Spring.
Transformational Women
On May 12, 2012, the CPBC Women’s Ministry teamed up with the Single Parents Ministry to host ten
families served through A Wider Circle, a local nonprofit whose mission is to address the needs of
families challenged by poverty. CPBC women donated funds, food, time, and talent toward this outreach
event which boldly declared the gospel and warmly expressed Christian love.
Transformational Young Adults
In June 2012, the CPBC Young Adults Ministry implemented a facilitated group mentoring program
for the middle-high-school students enrolled in the Park Montgomery Apartment Youth Development
Program. CPBC Young Adults engage with youth mentees through a seven-month series of facilitated
group discussions that promote their college-preparatory, life skills knowledge and overall professional
and personal growth.
Transformational Youth
Under the auspices of this year’s Vacation Bible School (VBS) program, CPBC youth donated funds to
provide backpacks and school supplies for fourteen elementary school students living in Park Montgomery
Apartments – an affordable housing resident for mostly low-income families. In addition, VBS
leaders, along with the CPBC Health and Evangelism Ministries, engaged families at the well-attended
downtown Silver Spring Fenton Street Market. They used the venue to speak with and invite area
youth to this year’s VBS program.
Transformational Couples
In preparation for their 2012 Marriage Conference on Romance, the Married Couples Ministry had
wonderful conversations with neighbors on how they maintain romance in marriage. Ministry leaders
requested a table at the Flower Avenue Market to survey area couples, hand out prizes, and promote
the June Conference. The occasion served as a great opportunity to speak with families and learn
about real marriages in our community.
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Missions Ministry Deacon Benjamin King
Missions Ministry is now under the umbrella of the Outreach Ministry, and as such some of
our activities are coordinated with Faith and Evangelism.
We have seen growth in our outreach efforts as we respond to the increased demand for assistance.
Our immediate community has recognized CPBC as that light on the hill, where many
are being ministered as we meet both physical and spiritual needs. We give God all the praise and glory,
especially when someone accepts Jesus Christ as Lord Savior. It is noteworthy that we make delivers to
our home-bound members, and not a single member has been left out.
The Clothes Closet continues to meet the needs of our community, and lately, we have had requests from
people needing suits to go to a job interview, and couples getting married. However, we still ask donors
to be mindful of the quality and cleanliness of the items that are being donated. We are sorry to say that
we cannot accept undergarments and socks anymore. This is due to both cleanliness and quality of such
items. Also, items CANNOT be dropped off in the hallway.
Efforts are being made to setup collection points of non-perishable food items on the first Sunday of
every month. Trustees have given us the green light to proceed, and donated items will be moved to the
food bank immediately after service. This is as a result of the increased requests for food that come in
during the month.
After three years of continuous service in the International Missions field, we used this year to rest, plan
and strategize as we respond to the Great Commission, but also respond to physical needs as best as we
can. Of particular interest is the planning for our 1000 women conference in The Gambia in 2013. Please
keep us, including our partner ministry, Guiding Light Ministries in prayer as we plan, with emphasis on
Mathew 16:18.
Projects:
We are working in partnership with the Youth Ministry for a major outreach in 2013, called Gospel Fest
2013, targeting the youth in our community, and discussions are underway with Minister Scott, as we
want to include our youth in the planning. We also are engaging the Spanish ministry, Cristo Vivae in this
event.
We will start the process of church planting at our next missions’ trip, when indentified leaders will be
interviewed and a training curriculum put in place. CPBC will develop the curriculum, conduct the training
and do the ordination/consecration. This is a very exciting time for us as a ministry and the body of
Christ. We ask that you continue to lift us and our Pastor up in prayers; and also join us. Be a part of history-making
and not a bystander.
For the past 10 years, CPBC have been praying for the people of Southern Sudan, and have been acknowledging
them during our annual International Sunday celebration.
The Lord has answered prayers of the faithful, and we are now praying and looking into the possibility of
missionary work in that part of the world. In fact, the government is embracing Christian ministries, since
it is the church that has stood by them and supported them during their twenty odd years of slavery and
atrocities at the hands of the Islamist. Thank God they are now a new independent nation, but the work is
monumental. We know that we have a God who is able. We are fully trusting Him.
We are asking that you keep us in prayers as we work in His vineyard. We also ask you to continue to lift
our Pastor, Pastor Lewis, in prayers as he obeys our Leader and Savior, Jesus Christ, and shepherds us
along. The journey is long and could be arduous sometimes. As we journey, let us pay particular attention
to MOMENTS and keep in mind that the rewards are everlasting.
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Minister of Music Victor Simonson
Music & Arts Ministries Poniesa Johnson
Psalm 34:1
I will bless the Lord at all times. His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
Minister of Music, Victor Simonson
Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, The Ministry of Worship and Arts has offered
powerful worship to our God each week. Each week we attempt to set the atmosphere of
worship, thereby preparing hearts and minds for God to transform, heal, deliver and
save us. We have enjoyed the continued move of God in our ministry and thank God for how has
moved in our midst!
Highlights of this past year include:
Mass Choir
Implementation of a Mass Choir that includes psalmists from all musical aggregations (Youth
Choir, Psalmists Choir and Sanctuary Choir). The Mass Choir sings when we celebrate Communion
and for holidays and special occasions. The ministry of the Mass Choir has been dynamic and
has truly been a blessing to our church.
Praise Team
The praise team was reinstated in the fall of 2011 and offered powerful ministry to our most worthy
God! The praise team continues to inspire and uplift our hearts with power soul stirring vocal
harmonies and soloists who minister under the influence of the Holy Spirit. The Praise Team
also had the honor and privilege of accompanying Pastor Lewis in an outgoing engagement to
Nottingham Myers United Methodist Church in Upper Marlboro and also served as the principal
aggregation during our revival services in January.
Revival Services
During our revival services in January, we welcomed dynamic Psalmists, Terrell Hunt, Phillip
Carter and Gregory Watkins. We praise God for their inspiring ministry!
Worship & Arts Consecration
The ministry of Worship & Arts had our first consecration and anointing service for new and
existing Psalmists. Pastor Lewis and Minister Henley lead us as we were consecrated and set apart
as worship leaders. This was truly a powerful moment in the life of our ministry.
Audio Assurance Partnership
In June, 2012, Clifton Park Baptist Church and Ministry of Worship and Arts partnered with Audio
Assurance, a local sound company who provides professional sound technicians for our worship
services on Sunday. This continues to be a blessing to us during worship each week.
Open House
The worship music and arts ministry had a successful open house in March when 30 new members
joined the ministry (music, usher and dance). Glory to God for taking us from glory to
glory!
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Music Ministry Transition
On September 9, 2012, I stepped down from my appointment as Minister of Music. I praise
God for the honor and privilege to serve as your Minister of Music. We welcome Minister Terrell
Hunt as our interim Minister of Music and look forward to how the Lord will move
through this anointed brother! Not unto us, O God, but your name be the glory!
Usher Ministry – Michael Grant, Head Usher
Psalm 84:10 - “For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I’d rather be a doorkeeper in
the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.”
As the usher’s ministry comes to the close of another year of providing faithful services to the
Lord, we have been able to accomplish a number of things. We established two new usher’s
ministries; a youth ministry as well as an all men’s ministry. The ministry gained 12 adult ushers
and 7 youth ushers this church year. Changes were made to move the juniors and youth from
third Sunday to second Sunday as well as establish all men’s usher’s ministry on fourth Sunday.
New uniforms, all white, were purchased for the women for communion service and all black
attires were required, for baptism, on third Sundays. New badges were also purchased for each
usher. The usher board has put into practice quarterly birthday celebrations where members of
the usher board can fellowship with one another.
One of our main objectives coming in to this year was to establish a personal relationship with
God, with each other and to fellowship with other ministries; as well as other churches. We as a
ministry and the church hope to continue to stay in prayer and allow God to lead us where He
wants our church and ministry to go. There is a lot that God has in store for this church and
the ministry as whole. As we close this year we are planning a fish fry for the junior usher’s anniversary
to include all members of the Music and Arts Ministry.
Psalms 91:1-2 - “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow
of the Almighty, I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I
will trust.”
Drama Ministry - Ross Johnson, Erica Barnhardt, Bryan Young
Drama ministry presented a powerful documentary film featuring the Youth of CPBC at the Fall
Festival entitled “Maskquerade”. The documentary depicted how we hide who we really are and
the mask we wear for people. On Christmas Eve the youth along with the Children’s choir and
Children of the King dance ministry performed in a dramatic presentation “Where is Christ in
Christmas” the play told the story of how society has removed Jesus Christ in our Christmas
celebrations.
Dance Ministry – Poniesa Johnson
What a mighty God we serve! The Lord continues to do a marvelous work in and through the
Dance ministry (Women of Virtue - WOV, Vessels of Praise- VOP and Children of the King -
COTK). We have had the opportunity to minister on a regular basis during our worship services
to help set the atmosphere for worship and be a part of our celebratory services such as,
Annual Church Revival, Pastor’s Anniversary, Senior’s Appreciation Day and Youth Sunday’s.
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This year we have sought to bring all of dance groups together by having more opportunities
to dance with one another. WOV and VOP danced to “God is Able” and for our Women’s
Day program, these groups also danced to “Moving Forward” to remind us that God is a God
of promise. VOP and COTK had an opportunity to minister together for a Youth Sunday to
“What you want” an uplifting song declaring that we will give God all the Praise! During the
church anniversary a dramatic monologue was featured to introduce the dance “You are God
alone” celebrating how God has sustained and has breathed life into our church for so many
years. COTK has had the opportunity to dance for the Youth services on the 4 th Sunday of
the Month.
The ministry continues to be on the move, WOV & VOP danced at the Randolph Hills nursing
home in December 2011. WOV danced at the Mother’s Day community outreach event in
May. VOP had the pleasure of ministering two dances for the revival services at Takoma Baptist
Church in May.
The ministry continues to grow and we thank God for his blessing and the opportunity to be
instruments used to give God glory through dance.
Committee Members: Victor Simonson, Eileen Edwards, Michael Grant, Poniesa Johnson, and
Oye Adewole.
GREETERS & VISITORS MINISTRY Jannie Harrell
The Visitors’ Ministry was established in 2000. We provide information packets and
personalized items to our first time visitors. Packets are given to the first time visitors
every Sunday. We have had more than 150 first time visitors this year.
We added greeters to our ministry at the beginning of the year. We welcome members
and visitors as they enter the main entrances to our church - the ramp entrance from
the parking lot and the Piney Branch Road entrance.
We let visitors know that we greatly appreciate them fellowshipping with us
Assist persons by providing clear directions to specific areas of the church
We are available to assist at special events (i.e. weddings, funerals, confer-
ences, etc.)
We are striving to follow-up with our visitors to get to know them better and assist them in ways that
are suitable to their needs. We also will start taking pictures of our first time visitors.
Our Committee members are very joyful and faithful. Praise God! They are: Lorna Been, Joanne
Bellamy, Robin Bellamy, Denyse Boisson, Gloria Carr, Deborah Freeman, Brandon Harrell, Jannie
Harrell, Lester Harrell, Solange Jean, Carletta Lundy, Margaret Moore, Yvette Okole, Pamela Oliver-
Cross, Donna Sharp, Paulette Shelton, and Kathy Williams. We fellowship together every other month
(3 rd Sunday after church).
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Hospitality Ministry Donna Sharp & Therese Francique
The Hospitality Ministry's main objective is to provide an environment that is
warm and friendly where the members of Clifton Park Baptist Church congregation,
our guests and our visitors can freely fellowship with one another. The
Hospitality Ministry will also provide support for fellowship events planned by
other by CPBC ministries and committees.
THANKSGIVING DINNER - November 20, 2011. CPBC re-instated the annual Family Thanksgiving
Dinner. The Hospitality Ministry in partnership with the Diaconate hosted a dinner that fed
over 200 Clifton Parkers, their family and friends and members of the community.
Breaking of the Fast – January 8, 2012. Pastor Lewis, Minister Henley, members of the Diaconate,
the staff, other Clifton Parkers and visitors who participated in the annual revival fast,
came together to break the fast at a reception hosted by the Hospitality Ministry.
THE PASTOR'S 4TH ANNIVERSARY - Sunday, March 18, 2012. The Hospitality Ministry supported
the Anniversary Planning Committee in celebrating Pastor Lewis’s 4 th anniversary at Clifton
Park Baptist Church.
EASTER SUNDAY BREAKFAST - Sunday, April 8, 2012. Over a hundred church goers who attended
the sunrise service were treated to breakfast prepared and served by the Hospitality
Ministry.
SENIOR MINISTRY TEA & HAT SHOW - Saturday 19 May, 2012 the Hospitality Ministry supported
the event by preparing and serving the luncheon.
INTERNATIONAL SUNDAY “HOW SWEET IT IS” - June 24, 2012. The focus was on desserts from
around the world. More than 30 countries including the U.S.A, countries from across Africa,
the Caribbean, Latin America, Europe and Asia were showcased. Countries with official
“Ambassadors” had tables filled with native food and artifacts. Countries without official
“Ambassadors” were represented by table displays of informational handouts and artifacts. Pastor
Amaya and his congregation represented seven Latin American countries. The Library
Committee was also present to kick-off CPBC Children’s Summer Reading Book Club that ran
June 24 – August 4, 2012.
“ADOPT A WORK CREW” FELLOWSHIP - The DC Baptist Convention received a grant from the
city of Takoma Park to rehab 23 homes and asked CPBC to fellowship with and provide lunch
for one of the crews. Sister Nana Dolce, CPBC Community Outreach Coordinator asked the
Hospitality Ministry to take charge of the set-up, serving and clean-up. Approximately 12 volunteers
were served after they attended the 10 AM services at CPBC.
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Married Couples Ministry Artis & Juanita Palmer
The goal and objective of the Couples Ministry is to provide training and education for
married couples as to God’s plan for marriage; provide resources and tools to sustain
their marriages. This ministry is not just for married couples within our church body
but also for those married couples in our surrounding community.
Throughout scripture God provides instructions, examples, and guidance for godly marriages.
Ephesians 5-22:33 teaches husbands to love their wives as Christ loves the church
Proverbs: 18:22 teaches us that he who finds a wife finds a good thing
Proverbs 31:10-31 teaches us of about a wife of noble character
The Song of Solomon is a beautiful love story
There were two major events this church year:
Couples Valentine Ball
Theme—”Love is Still in the Air”
Thelma Jackson and Sandra Long once again assumed leadership for the ball; it was an awesome evening
and a great time for all. The couples were dressed in their finest and dinner was wonderful. Music DJ
was ‘Link the Soul Man’. Link played music that took the couples down memory lane and they danced
the night away. Our thanks once again to the husbands Ed Jackson and Huey Long for the support
they provided their wives.
Couple’s Conference
The theme for the 2012 Couples conference was “A Season of Romance.” The conference was a two
day event, Friday night and Saturday.
The décor, thanks to our very own Brenda Boykins, was an island theme. The conference began with
the Friday evening opening session, dinner, and entertainment by comedian Sean Sarvis. The finale on
Friday evening was a short film directed and produced by Soul Purpose Production entitled “A Season
of Romance.”
Saturday’s session began with Breakfast. There were two session leaders: Pastor and Mrs. Gregory Sims
who led the session, “God and Romance.” They shared with the couples what the scripture teaches us
about God and Romance.
Dr. Sherrill Dr. McMillan led the session “Communication and Romance .” Dr. McMillan provided a one
month contract for the couples to agree upon and sign. Each couple was to list three things they
would agree to do in the next thirty days that would make their marriage hotter than ever.
Presented also on Saturday were surveys results, 30-40 couples were surveyed and requested that they
respond to the following questions: Gender, Age, How long have you been married? and, Excluding
intimacy how do you romance your spouse?
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The purpose of the survey was to reach out to couples outside of CPBC and to provide suggestions
of how to romance your spouse. Survey results were shared with conference attendees.
There were door prizes and prize drawings consistent with conference theme.
Our thanks to Karen Aaron for her help with dinner on Friday evening, breakfast and lunch on Saturday.
Small Group Fellowships
With the intent to better understand how the ministry may meet the needs of couples at CPBC, we
are hosting small group fellowships. The goal is to give each couple an opportunity to participate. Our
prayer is that through these small group sessions the Lord will reveal to the couples their needs of
how the ministry can better serve them. The ultimate goal is to have the marriage God desires.
Men’s Fellowship Ministry Ed Jackson
The purpose of the Men’s Fellowship Ministry (MFM) is to bring the Men of
Clifton Park together as Spiritual brothers in Christ to active participation in a
fellowship of believers. We seek to grow spiritually, morally and to disciple one
another. We will reach out to other men to share the love of Jesus Christ and to
put them on the path to salvation.
Major Fellowship Activities during 2012:
□ The MFM held its Annual Super Bowl Celebration on February 5 th with a Pot Luck Get-
Together. There was plenty of good food, games and other fun activities and fellowship.
□ Our Annual Spring Breakfast Seminar was held on March 24. Our guest speaker was Dr. William
“Stan” Boddie, Professor of Systems Management at the U.S. National Defense University.
Dr. Boddie spoke to us on the topic-- “Christian Men Leading with Integrity,” a message
which generated a lively and thoughtful discussion. Those in attendance included representatives
from the Men’s Ministry from Takoma Park Baptist Church and past members of CPBC.
□ On May 8, 2012, the MFM celebrated Mother’s Day. We gave expressions of our love and
gratitude to our wives, mothers and grandmothers for all that they do and for the sacrifices
they make each and every day for their families. As a small measure of our love, we provided
a gift to our mothers and a dozen roses to our First Lady of the Church.
□ Men’s Day Weekend, July 20-22 was very exciting. We began weekend activities with a Bible
Study on Friday evening from the “A Measure of a Man” series which is based on 1 Timothy
3 and Titus 1. On Saturday, July 21, we held our Annual Fish Fry and Cookout. There was
plenty of food, fellowship, and a variety of game activities. The weekend concluded with Worship
Service on Sunday with Pastor Lewis delivering a sermon based on Proverbs 27:17 “As
iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” An outstanding musical performance was
provided by the Men’s Choir.
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Ministry Activities:
□ Additionally, the MFM continues to serve at the Shepherds Table on the 3 rd Friday of each
month under the leadership of Harry Guy. We hope to get more men involved in this ministry
during the upcoming year.
□ During the first weekend in July, the MFM hosted the Project Neighbor Care. We conducted
the “door knocking” in the assigned neighborhood on June 30 and distributed food on July 7.
Ministry Leadership Team: Jocelyn Jean, Vice Chairperson, Leslie Cross, Harry Guy, Hampton Edwards,
Ogbadu Opaluwa and Michael Grant.
Women’s Fellowship Ministry Cassandra Lewis
In 2011-2012, the CPBC Women’s Ministry endeavored to provide CPBC women
with opportunities to connect with God, grow in faith, build deep relationship
with each other, and demonstrate Godly love in the community. Ministry members
worked together, via a team-based approach, to care, support and disciple
each other through quarterly women’s fellowship; outreach and service initiatives
and our annual women’s weekend. The below list summarizes most of the public
events and activities of the ministry. While all can be counted as successful, the
true blessing of the ministry can also be measured by public interactions and connections
that women experienced through prayer and intimate conversation with each other; generous donations,
and acts of service to encourage and support.
Date Event/Activity Title Description
Friday, November 11, 2011 Women’s Ministry Fellowship Informal potluck fellowship
Friday, January 27, 2012 Women's Ministry Fellowship Informal catered fellowship focused on adopting a healthy
lifestyle; Sis. Lorraine Jones (fitness demo); Sis. Cheryl Callahan
(presenter on healthy and organic eating); Sis. Kiana
Scott (presenter on adopting a healthy lifestyle)
Friday, March 9, 2012 Outing/Excursion Fellowship at the movies @ Regal Majestic Stadium, Downtown
Silver Spring
March 23-24, 2012 Service to Men’s Ministry Cooked and served breakfast in support of the CPBC Men’s
Ministry breakfast.
Saturday, May 12, 2012 Mother’s Day Brunch The Women’s Ministry and Single Parents Ministry cosponsored
an outreach event on Mother’s Day weekend for
community women served through the Wider Circle program,
a transitional support program in Silver Spring.
June 17, 2012 Father’s Day Gifts Sponsored Father’s day gifts for CPBC fathers (funded via
donations from CPBC women)
Saturday, August 4, 2012 Project Neighbor Care Lead ministry for all PNC related activities
Saturday, August 25, 2012 Annual Women’s Weekend
Praise and Prayer Breakfast
“Boldly Believing the Promises of
God” Numbers 23:19
Sunday, August 26, 2012 Annual Women’s Weekend
Worship Service
Praise and Prayer Breakfast featuring spirit-filled praise and
prayer, special music, and an inspirational message from Rev.
Dr. Cynthia T. Turner, Senior Pastor of Dayspring Community
Church , Lanham MD.
Breakfast prepared by the CPBC Men’s Ministry
Celebratory women’s weekend worship service: Guest
Preacher: Rev. Sheleta E. Fomby Sheleta E. Fomby, Minister
to Women at Reid Temple AME, Silver Spring, MD
2011-2012 Women’s Ministry Planning Team: Chair: Cassandra C. Lewis; Administration: Nana Yaa Gyabaah; Activities:
Deborah Freeman & Sarmah Lloyd (until May 2012); Care: Carletta Lundy.
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YOUNG ADULTS MINISTRY Lola Olakanye
Within the year, the Young Adults Ministry has grown tremendously. Not only have we grown in
number, but we have grown spiritually. As a group, we sought to create and build more spiritual and
healthy young adults who can become leaders not only within the church, but also amongst our peers
within the community.
The various activities and studies have laid down the path for us to become the leaders that God would
want us to be. Through the “Choices” book in our Bible study classes, lead by Sis. Carletta Lundy, we
were taught to embrace the single life that the Lord has for us now in order to unconditionally devote
our time to God in order to advance His kingdom. Other topics in this class, purity, singleness, and
celibacy, have allowed us to turn from self and turn more towards God in order to do His will.
Aside from working on our present spiritual life, we have also had the opportunity to go into the community
to give back. Within the year, the Young Adults have worked with the PNC committee in door
knocking and giving out food to the needy. A mentoring group for middle and high school children at
Park Montgomery Apartments has been in progress since June. The ministry has been focusing their
time working with the youth who live in this apartment building to discuss certain pressing issues that
youth go through such as school, their future goals, peer pressure, current events, and other thought
provoking topics. This is an important activity for the Ministry to be apart of due to the lack of positive
mentors that our children have today.
Along with advancing the kingdom of God, the Young Adults Ministry has found time to have
monthly activities to fellowship with each other and get to know each other on a personal note. These
activities include go-carting, dinner, karaoke, laser tag, and much more.
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HEALTH & RECREATION MINISTRIES Felicia Charlouis
Purpose Statement
To enhance our congregation’s quality of life by helping to improve the health and
spiritual well being as well as emphasizing wellness, prevention and the power to take
control of one’s health. To meet the emotional, physical and spiritual needs of an
individual through a holistic approach.
Our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit
1 Corinthians 6:19
It has been an exciting year as the Health Ministry Leader at Clifton Park Baptist Church; 2011 was very
busy, challenging and hectic. It is nice to be able to look back at what the Lord has done through HIS
ministry. What a privilege to serve our congregation. I am so blessed and humbled to do the Lord’s
work.
Please join me in recognizing the Health Ministry team and all those contributed to the ministry and especially
Deacon Diane Brockington. We express our gratitude to the numerous organizations that partnered
with us this year. We ask that the congregation continue to support and pray for this ministry.
Ministry Accomplishments for 2011 – 2012
The Prime Time Sister Circles: a 12-week program for African American women aimed to change
how women approach their own health, families and communities. Eighteen women participated
from the ages of 40 to 75. The following were members of CPBC, Mount Jezreel Baptist Church and
from the community. Supported by Gaston & Porter Health Improvement Center. .
Breast Cancer Awareness and Power Over Diabetes workshop was held on October 15 th with sixteen
attending and included a Zumba demonstration by our own Sister Janet Awokoya of Zukossa Fitness.
Diabetes Project Power workshop title Taste and See with guest speaker Oyonumo Ntekim, PhD,
Clinical Dietitian from Genesis Health Care on November 12, 2011.
Diabetes ID Day a joint effort with the American Diabetes Association celebrating ID day at churches
on Sunday, November 13 th . “ID Day at church was a one-day ‘wake up call’ to sound the alarm and
inform the American public about the seriousness of diabetes, particularly when it is left undiagnosed
or untreated”.
Ministry team attended a Health Ministry Leaders meeting held at Washington Adventist Hospital
on December 5 th .
Rainbow Tea & Talk on Health Awareness an all church event on April 21, 2012. The purpose is to
engage, empower and educate women and men about the importance and the benefits of good
health practices, prevention and early detection; and, to also raise awareness among CPBC family
and the community we serve about the importance of clinical research and trials”. The guest speakers
were:
Tracy M. Walton, Jr. M.D., Associate Professor, Howard University College of Nurse
Juanita A. Archer, M.D., Associate Professor, Howard University
Lora Morrow, The Women’s Collective
Yolanda Fleming, National Medical Association
Indira Shark, United Healthcare
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Attended the Washington Adventist Healthcare bi-monthly Health Ministry Network meeting at
the Washington Adventist Hospital.
Description of the Network Meeting: Bi-monthly network meetings where Health Ministry leaders
and Faith Community Nurses from several faith groups come together to share their experiences
and also gain knowledge on resources and different aspects of Health Ministry in congregations.
Health Ministry Training Workshop hosted by CPBC on March 31 st facilitator Susan Heitmuller,
MA Health Ministry Coordinator from Washington Adventist HealthCare. In attendance were
members from Takoma Park Baptist Church and members from CPBC Health Ministry.
Wear Red Sunday was observed on February 5, 2012 a national campaign to promote heart health
awareness heart disease in Women.
The health ministry webpage has been updated.
Prescription discount cards were distributed.
Fellowship Break (Coffee Hour) on-going on Sundays. We serve healthy breakfasts and that, too,
has been successful.
Faith Community Nurse Accomplishments
Sister Linda Kgasi, RN
Scope and Standards of Practice in Faith Community Nurse at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Silver
Spring, MD held by the Health Ministry Association - sponsored by Holy Cross FCN Network
40 hours training on Chronic Disease Management - Geared toward teaching individuals with
chronic diseases to self manage. This is a free 10 workshop that could be brought to the CPBC
and engage the community (one on one teaching).
Mental Health Workshop with emphasis on Community Resources in Montgomery/Prince Georges
County - Holy Cross Faith Community Nurse Network.
Washington Adventist Hospital- Health Ministry Network Meetings - Healthcare Reform. - Caring
for seniors in your congregation - Maryland Health Insurance programs - Self Care Workshop
for the caregiver for Kids.
Referred 2 persons to healthcare resources related to abnormal blood pressures, 1 person to
Medication supplemental coverage for diabetes medications.
Healthcare Reform Conference on September 8, 2012 with an emphasis on Healthcare Disparities
- as relates to women of color held at Morgan State University supported by Maryland Women's
Coalition.
The Southern Christian Leadership Prince George County Chapter 4 th Annual Conference on
September 21, 2012 on “The Impact of HIV-AIDS on the community of color” sponsored by
Capital Hospice held at Gesethemene UMC Capital Heights, Maryland.
Holy Cross Hospital Faith Community Nurse & Health Ministry Fall Network Meeting will be
held on September 29, 2012, Topic: “Congregational Inspirations”.
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Project Neighbor Care (PNC)
The health ministry has dedicated time to minister and support our community. We provided blood pressure
screenings on the first Saturday of each month. The ministry also led a “Health Show Case” distribution of health
education materials.
Health Fair
The community health fair “Family Health Day” was another huge success with estimate of 200 in attendance.
Our partners this year were Kaiser Permanente, Prince George Medical Center and Washington Adventist Hospital,
along with the following organizations: AmeriGroup, Community Education Group, DentaQuest, Faces of
Our Children (Howard University Center of Sickle Cell Disease), Holy Cross Hospital, Hoop 4 Joy LLC, Jennifer
Boise (Personal Trainer), Kaiser Permanente, Latino Health Initiative, Lions Community Outreach Foundation
(Kensington Lions Club) Loving Care Pediatrics, National Alliance on Mental Illness of Montgomery County, Priority
Partner MCO (John Hopkins Healthcare), The African American Health Program, The Fit Solution, United
Healthcare and Washington Adventist Hospital. We say a special thank you to Whole Foods and Costco for their
donation this year. This is the second year Whole Foods has supported the health fair.
Health offerings included blood pressure, BMI, cholesterol, dental, glucose, hearing, HIV/AIDS, vision and many
other screenings. Some invited organizations could not attend and those present expressed interest in being a part
of the 2013 Health Fair.
Washington Adventist HealthCare: 35 BMI (Body Mass Index)
Lions Community Outreach Foundation:
Vision Testing: 40 Tested
Passed (11)
Referred (29)
Hearing Testing: 31 Tested
Passed (18)
Referred (13)
Priority Partners MCO/ Johns Hopkins HealthCare, LLC: 35 dental testing
Community Education Group: 12 HIV Testing
African American Health Program: 50 Blood pressure
Faces of Our Children: Sickle Cell testing 35
CPBC Faith Outreach: One (1) accepted Christ
Community Outreach
Attended the District of Columbia Baptist Convention (DCBC) “White Cross” workshop on Saturday,
March 24, 2012. Approximately twenty (20) women from the Washington Metropolitan area Baptist
churches attended the workshop. We helped to roll bandages, sewing medical supplies (surgeon caps, surgeon
masks and cotton squares, assembling health kits, school kits and much more to support the American
Baptist Missionaries around world. Chris Marziale from American Baptist International Ministries presented
on how White Cross supplies are been used on the mission field.
The Fenton Street Market is a weekly event that transforms Veterans Plaza in downtown Silver Spring into
a bustling marketplace full of crafts, antiques, fine art, imported goods from across the globe, and community
programming ranging from English classes to local musical acts. At the Fenton Street Market on
Saturday, June 9, 2012, the Health Ministry, Vacation Bible School and Evangelism Teams were there to
speak with Silver Spring neighbors.
Thank you for your continuing prayers and support. We look forward to all that is yet to come through our
partnership in promoting wellness and wholeness. We can work together in Jesus’ name.
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COMMUNICATIONS Robin Bellamy
The past year has been full of exciting developments and continued success for the
Communications Ministry. We have continued to strive for excellence as we provided
support to promote events, meetings and general information, both internally and
externally. With guidance and help from God, we were able to accomplish numerous
goals including increasing Clifton Park Baptist Church’s social media presence, restructuring
the announcement format, and providing ministries with guidelines to
better assist them with event and meeting promotion.
Website
The church website and other web-based communications has been one of the major
priorities to the Communications Ministry. The website has been well maintained and allows for a variety
of interactive resources for visitors and members of CPBC. Member Central has been an integral part
for the Communications Ministry and other ministries, as it houses essential forms that are used to efficiently
transmit necessary information about upcoming events and resources needed for those events.
Member Central also has key information that members can use about upcoming meetings or administrative
knowledge. The main site allows visitors and members alike to hear audio sermons, submit prayer
requests, and sign up online to participate in event and class registrations. Other resources include
newsletters, monthly bulletin supplements, ministry information and Bible study resources.
Social Media
CPBC has had great success with social media, with Facebook being popular with many of the members.
To date, CPBC has 131 likes with members commenting on the updated statuses, pictures, and events. It
also serves as a way for members, past and present, to interact with each other as they view all the progression
that we have made. CPBC’s Twitter account (@CliftonParkBC) has also increased our social media
presence. The site allows for live tweets of the sermon as well as announcements of upcoming events
and important announcements. We are pleased to say that we have a few “faithful followers” and we will
be exploring other innovative ways in which we can use this social media resource and others.
Newsletter
The Communications Ministry continues to provide members and visitors the opportunity to see what’s
going on within the CPBC family through our quarterly newsletter, “The Clifton Parker”. Now in its second
year, articles about CPBC’s outstanding events and community initiatives have been highlighted, as
well as in-depth overviews of the ministries at CPBC. Members have given very positive feedback on the
newsletter and have contributed by submitting some of their own articles and achievements to be included
in the newsletters. Pastor’s Corner and Your Voice continue to be popular recurring newsletter
sections.
Assistance to Ministries
The Communications Ministry continuously works with other ministries to ‘get the word out’ in the
most effective way possible. This year we have assisted in a variety of ways such as the development of
visual and graphic aids for announcement and worship service slides, posters, flyers and promotional
cards. We have also worked with local radio stations to place event announcements on their sites and to
have it broadcasted during their station programming. To further assist ministries, the Communications
Ministry developed a “Protocols and Guidelines” handbook to make them aware of timelines and the
various options by which they can promote their event or meeting.
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Looking Ahead
The Communications Ministry will have its yearly planning meeting in September to look at
our 2012-2013 goals and objectives, some of which will include:
Review of our communication vehicles to ensure we are effectively reaching all of our members
and that they are kept well informed
Working with the Trustees to incorporate Wi-Fi accessible areas within the church
Expand upon our use of social media resources to share the gospel and inform others about
the work God is doing at CPBC
Be proactive in working with ministries to better coordinate and plan for use of communication
services
Acknowledgments
The Communications Ministry is grateful to God for all He has allowed us to accomplish during this
church year, and we wait with anticipation to see how He will use us to further the work of His Kingdom.
We are especially thankful for the committee members who have served and assisted the Ministry
in various capacities. These include Joanne Bellamy, Pat Dunnavant, Nana Gyabaah, Selina Hunt, and
Adrienne Thorpe.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE Lorraine Jones
As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another,
as good stewards of the manifold grace of God
(1Peter 4:10)
The primary focus of the Nominating Committee (NC) this year has been to match
members of the Clifton Park body with opportunities in the ministry for the building
up of the church and to help members develop and increase a sense of belonging; of
connectedness to one another. The tools used to facilitate that process are the Spiritual Gifts Inventory,
used to identify our God-given gifts and the Passion Assessment, used to guide us as to where those
gifts are best used. While there remains much to be done, we are thankful for the accomplishments to
date:
Ministry Fair – The Ministry Fair, hosted by the Communications Ministry, was an opportunity for the
membership to acquaint themselves with CP ministry possibilities and to identify which ministry selections
would best suit them. The NC provided the opportunity for all members to complete the Spiritual
Gifts Inventory and Passion Assessment to identify their God-given gifts and passions in preparation for
informed ministry selections. Special thanks to Min. Janet Henley who trained and prepared us to conduct
consultations to assist our brothers and sisters in the process of making Spirit-led ministry selections.
Discovering Spiritual Gifts – Members are provided an opportunity to discover more about their spiritual
gifts by contacting a NC member or by indicating on their attendance form, a desire to do so. The
NC responded to those requests by speaking with the members, educating them regarding the process,
arranging for inventories and assessments, and consulting with each individual (who opted to complete
the process) to assure their understanding of the results and to guide them in Spirit-led ministry selections.
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Pre-Membership Orientation – The NC has recently joined the pre-membership orientation process
(led by Sis. Pat Dunnavant) in an effort to shorten the process of getting new members connected to
ministries. An NC member attends the orientation session and assists pre-members through the process
of completing their Spiritual Gift Inventories and Passion Assessments prior to the completion of
the class. The Committee counsels and consults with each pre-member until ministry selection has
been accomplished.
Spiritual Gifts Database – We are in the final stage of development. The database, which will house
spiritual gifts, passions and vocational skills data, will allow the NC to:
respond to requests for the identification of members with particular gifts, passions and skills
identify members who are not ministry connected so that we can assist them in getting connected
keep the gifts and passions data current
The Nominating Committee, which includes Gbemi Acholonu, Ralph Freeman, Marvel George, Linda
Kgasi, and Lorraine Jones, is grateful to God for the progress we have made and to all those who have
come along side us to assist in the effort.
PERSONNEL Patty Poston
The Personnel Committee cares for and manages the needs of the staff and fosters a constructive relationship
between the staff and the congregation. It establishes and administers a personnel policy for
paid staff which includes such items as leave policy, job descriptions, performance appraisals and reviews,
guidelines for hiring and dismissal of paid staff other than the Pastor or any associate pastor,
and resolution of grievances.
As in prior years, the past year was again shaped by much activity.
In October, 2011, we celebrated God’s goodness during our third observance of “Pastor Appreciation
Sunday” by showing appreciation to our pastor and his wife and family for their service to our Lord
and to us, the congregation. Pastor received a gift card, scrolls of messages of appreciation from the
committees and ministries and filmed accolades from various Sunday School classes and members of
the congregation. Mrs. Lewis was presented with a floral bouquet and a gift certificate to a spa.
We celebrated Pastor’s 4 th Pastoral Anniversary on the 3 rd Sunday in March (3-18-12), with a theme of
“The Dream, the Power and the Transformation” of the people of Clifton Park Baptist Church. Scripture
reference - 2 Cor 3:18. Supporting Scriptural references: I Kings 3:12-13, 2 Tim 1:7 and Rom 12:2.
Reverend Dr. Cynthia T. Turner of Dayspring Community Church of Lanham, MD offered the sermon.
After the service, we provided a buffet style luncheon for all in attendance at the worship service.
Pastor Lewis received a gift certificate for the purpose of selecting a desired cassock or robe. The
celebration was jointly planned by this committee, the Fellowship Committee, the Worship, Music and
Arts Committee and the Anniversary Steering Committee
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Significant Committee activities:
Established Youth Minister position
Reviewed and compiled the position descriptions of the paid staff.
Developed framework for a written Personnel Policy/ Employee Handbook.
Began dialogue to establish a comprehensive compensation package for all employees.
Conducted market research for compensation.
Reviewed The MMBB Guide for Church-Related Employers
Analyzed current compensation packages.
Collaborated with a financial planner to establish guidelines for future benefits for
staff.
I thank God for the opportunity to serve Him, the staff, the congregation, and this committee. I
thank the staff for their continued service, dedication and hard work.
The Personnel Committee is to be commended for their commitment to the service of caring for the
staff and congregation. I thank them for their time, support, faithfulness and service.
The committee members are: Cheryl Callahan, Mary Shaibu, Lester Harrell, Pamela Sanford, Paulette
Shelton, Solange Jean and Patty Poston, Chairperson.
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STEWARDSHIP & FINANCE Edward Jackson
TREASURER Hampton Edwards
Overview:
The Stewardship and Finance Committee (SFC) is responsible for recommending to the Church Council
the ways and means of financing ministries, programs and activities of the church, and for promoting
Christian Stewardship based on principles provided in Scripture.
The SFC has two ongoing performance goals which are intended to measure progress toward effective
stewardship. The first goal is to establish and maintain an effective stewardship education program as
measured by the growth in giving by individuals and families in the congregation. The second goal is
to oversee and maintain accountability and integrity over the Church’s financial resources in cooperation
with the Church Treasurer.
Accomplishments: SFC provided monthly messages on the stewardship of giving, which were posted
on the Church’s Website together with a brief summary of the status of income and expenditures.
Future plans include posting information on stewardship and summary financial information in the
monthly bulletin and quarterly newsletter. On August 18, SFC began a course offering from Dave
Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. This biblically based course is designed to put individuals and
families on a path to financial independence by becoming better stewards of their financial resources
according to God’s plan for their lives.
SFC also prepares financial reports for review by the Church Council to assure effective accountability
of the Church’s financial resources. Financial reports are available to members of the congregation
during quarterly Business Meetings.
2012 Stewardship Promotion: The theme for the 2012 Fall Stewardship Promotion focused on “Saints
Alive! Living Generously.” This theme was chosen to inspire all of the “Saints” to give generously in
response to the immeasurable blessings that God pours into our lives. SFC is convinced that this
Ministry can do the “unimaginable” if we are obedient to God in our giving and serving.
The proposed 2012 Unified Budget of $765,683 approved by the Church Council was the same as the
2011 Unified Budget level. The 2012 Unified Budget was approved unanimously at the Church's First
Quarterly Business Meeting on January 25, 2012.
Finance:
2012 Budget Status
Budget income through August 31, 2012 was $485,589, which was approximately seven percent more
than the comparable period in 2011. Expenditures increased only four percent during this same period.
Based on current assumptions, final budget income for 2012 should approximate $736,000 by
year’s end. This would be three (3) percent below our budget goal for the year.
Our focus for the remainder of the year will be to challenge all members to grow in the grace of giving.
Reminding all of us that Psalms 1 tells us that if we shun evil and meditate on God’s word daily
we will prosper—meaning that we will always have enough to satisfy our needs. See the attached Financial
Statements under the Treasurer’s Report for the current reporting period, and a year-end Financial
Statement for 2011.
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Investment Account
The total value of our investment account with Morgan Stanley as of July 31, 2011 is $134,000, up
slightly from $132,000 in July of last year. Market performance will improve with overall economic
growth in the economy in the months to come. Our investment strategy of a moderate and diversified
allocation in several asset categories remains the same.
Conclusion:
The SFC is optimistic about CPBC’s financial outlook for the balance of 2012 and beyond. The trend in
giving from members of the congregation will continue to grow. It is our prayer that as the membership
matures in the grace of giving, God will provide abundantly for all of our needs for mission and
ministry. The SFC thanks those members of the congregation who are faithful and obedient in their giving
of their time and talents and financial resources to support this Ministry.
Members serving on the Stewardship and Finance Committee during 2010/2011: Hampton Edwards
(Treasurer), Jannie Harrell (Assistant Treasurer), Heather Green, Delbert “CJ” Drewry, Marvel George,
and Ernest Johnson, who represents the Board of Trustees. Thank you for your service!
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THE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY The Board Members
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
Proverbs 22:6
Over the past year, the Board of the CPBC Christian Academy has faithfully worked
toward the launch of Higher Ground, a dynamic enrichment program that helps
shape and elevate highly motivated and committed middle and high school students.
Higher Ground will provide opportunities that assist students in reaching the “Promise Land” of their
full spiritual, academic and leadership potential. Higher Ground debuts on Saturday, November 3, 2012
with a pilot offering for current 8 th grade students!
THE PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Higher Ground consists of two unique but complementary programs: Firm Foundations (FF) and College
Bound (CB) that are designed to provide students with rigorous and inspiring enrichment activities.
Firm Foundations is the entry point for the Higher Ground program. FF students in 6 th -8 th grades
complete math and writing courses; are taught time management, study, and test taking skills; and participate
in field trips and other forms of experiential learning. Only students who successfully complete
FF in 7 th and/or 8 th grade are eligible to enroll in the CB program. The CB program offers students in
9 th -12 th grade a customized sequence of essential college preparatory, cultural, and life skills enrichment
courses. Students also receive comprehensive SAT test preparation, guidance through the college
admission process, and opportunities to participate in visits to college campuses. A unique feature of
the CB program is a focus on developing skilled and confident communicators . FF and CB will meet
primarily on Saturday mornings at Clifton Park Baptist Church. Both programs will be supported by
skilled and committed volunteers from the Washington DC metro area.
THE CORE VALUES
In the end, Higher Ground is purposed to create a college- and life-ready student, characterized by six
indispensable core values:
Excellence – High Ground students are marked by high expectations to achieve their personal
best in all that they commit to do.
Faith – Higher Ground encourages students to live a life of committed discipleship through
personal faith in Jesus Christ.
Leadership – Higher Ground develops leaders who are able to inspire and guide others with
boldness and thoughtfulness.
Respect– Higher Ground cultivates a rich environment of esteem, cooperation and mutual
respect in which each student is a compassionate and considerate member of the community.
Responsibility – Higher Ground students are motivated by personal responsibility and exemplify
initiative, focus and self-control.
Service – Higher Ground students are instilled with a commitment to community and service
to others.
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The following is a list of 2011-2012 Board members and their respective offices:
Cassandra Lewis – Board Chair
Elizabeth Olakanye – Vice Chair
CJ Drewey – Treasurer
Pamela Sanford – Secretary
Cheryl Callahan
Thelma Jackson
Barbara Hunter
The Lord continues to provide His guidance and favor as the Board and CPBC volunteers work, give,
and pray to fulfill this great ministry of the church. May the CPBCCA’s potential for reaching this
neighborhood for Christ be fully manifested as we faithfully work to the glory of God!
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